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Monday, 3 February 2014

Plans unveiled for revival of Dover Western Docks

Dover Harbour Board has announced exciting development plans for a new cargo terminal, which it believes would be the catalyst for regeneration of the town and its economy.

Having successfully achieved government approval in 2012 to develop the Western Docks, the board has announced it is to move forward on developing a dedicated cargo terminal for the benefit of the Port of Dover, its customers and local community.

Through the early development of the approved consented footprint in the Western Docks, the port could create more than 600 new logistics industry jobs for Dover, which the board describes as a ‘game changer’ for the port and local economy.

The development would also safeguard a further 140 positions by developing a new cargo terminal. This would revive the Western Docks, protect long term port capacity, and enable the transformation of the waterfront with the potential creation of a new marina.

Dover Harbour Board’s vision is an evolution of the previous masterplanning proposals and represents a possible way of achieving key benefits of the plan based upon current market conditions and opportunities within the cargo business.

The relocation of the existing cargo operations from Eastern Docks, and subsequent expansion of activity at Western Docks, would enable the port to accommodate increased ferry berth capacity in the Eastern Docks in the future.

The announcement has been welcomed by the local authority and South East Local Enterprise Partnership.

Cllr Paul Watkins, Leader of Dover District Council, said: “Delivering a major port development that protects long term capacity but delivers jobs and opportunities now, whilst creating a catalyst for major regeneration, will be a significant boost to the region and shows real commitment to Dover.”

Tim Waggott, Chief Executive, Port of Dover, said: “The port is determined to do more for and with its community whilst working with its major customers to achieve mutual success for the benefit of the nation.

“This opportunity requires the support of everyone to ensure the board gets the powers it needs to deliver for Dover. We want to work closely with our customers and the community in establishing and driving a shared vision. Together we can and must make it happen and we begin that journey today.”